CALL: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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What is a semester school?

A semester school provides high school students with a hands-on learning experience similar to that of a college “semester abroad” program. In a program like CALL, students step outside of their regular school routine to learn in a new environment defined by out-of-classroom experiences that prioritize creativity, community, leadership, and personal growth. Semester schools are academically rigorous with curriculums that allow students to learn by doing. Courses at CALL are immersive, self-directed, and hands-on and are offered at the honors level.

Who can apply?

CALL is intended for high school sophomores and juniors, however seniors are considered on a case-by-case basis.

How are CALL courses structured and graded?

All CALL courses are full semester-length courses taught at the honors level. At Watershed, courses are worth one credit each and grades are structured as written evaluations to students and parents. Students meet regularly with faculty and advisors to discuss their progress and Watershed staff work on a case-by-case basis to ensure that all credits and grades are accurately represented when transferred back to the student’s home institution.

Will the credits I earn be transferable to my high school?

Yes. We work hard to ensure that all credits for CALL courses are transferred back to your home institution. This typically happens on a case-by-case basis, however as Watershed School is registered with the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and the National Association of Independent Schools, credit transfers tend to be easily arranged.

Can I take the PSAT, SAT, AP, or ACT tests while attending CALL?

As CALL is intended for high school sophomores and juniors and takes place during the spring semester, we typically do not offer standardized testing for participants. If testing does need to occur, we work on a case-by-case basis to make this possible.

Will CALL provide students with college application assistance?

Yes. CALL students have the option to participate in Watershed’s college advising program. This program is both personal and reflective, asking students to consider their strengths, interests, purpose, character, and the contribution they want to make to the world and their communities. Students meet regularly with our college advisor and are encouraged to explore the many possibilities that exist after graduation.

Can I participate in sports while attending CALL?

Maine students may participate in sports at their home institutions if scheduling and commuting are logistically possible. While Watershed does not have sports teams, students are able to participate in a number of club sports in the community such as sailing, rowing, alpine and nordic skiing, ultimate frisbee, biking, and cross-country.  
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Does CALL accept international students?

Yes. Watershed typically hosts 2-3 international students each year and we encourage international students to apply to CALL. Students may apply for a full year, joining CALL in the spring, or they may apply for the spring semester only. Watershed is authorized by SEVIS to issue I-20 forms for F-1 visas. Students transferring from another school in the US may transfer their current visas.

When are applications due?

Applications are considered on a rolling admissions basis until the program is full. Priority is given to those who apply early.

When will I hear if I am accepted?

We read applications as soon as they are submitted. You should expect to hear within 3 weeks of your application submission.

What are the dates for the Spring 2022 Semester?

January 11, 2022 - June 10, 2022

What do you look for in an application?

We look for students who are committed to the CALL mission and demonstrate a genuine desire to learn in a collaborative and hands-on setting. We seek academically motivated students who are thoughtful, curious, and motivated and we encourage you to use the application process to communicate your passion, creativity, and personality. We want to get to know you!

Does CALL offer financial aid?

Yes. Financial aid is available and is based on calculated need as determined by FACTS, an independent tuition management company serving independent schools and colleges throughout New England. For further information, please contact our administrative director.
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How much does it cost to attend CALL?

To reflect our commitment to making CALL affordable and accessible to all students, we have set our tuition well below the semester school tuition average. Below is a breakdown of tuition and fees for CALL:

Tuition: $9850 for one semester
Homestay Stipend: $2200 ($400 per month)
Program Fee: $500 (to cover materials, field trips, speaker events, and transportation)
TOTAL: $12,550


How much does it cost for international students to attend CALL? How do students come? Through an agency?

The cost to attend CALL is the same for international and domestic students. International students are expected to cover the costs of travel to and from the program, health insurance, and visa fees. Watershed School can issue the Form I-20 that is required for students to obtain a visa.

Will there be a policy in place in case of a resurgence of COVID19?

In the event that there is a resurgence of COVID19 and we are required to switch to remote learning, Watershed School will cancel the CALL program and offer full refunds to accepted students. This refund is only available to students until the start of the program date. If circumstances require that we transition to remote learning part way through the program, students will not receive a refund.